Colchester United’s players were given the perfect send-off after thousands of fans flocked to their annual Open Day.

U's manager John Ward and his players signed autographs and chatted to supporters at the Weston Homes Community Stadium, before jetting off for their pre-season training camp in Holland.

Colchester chairman Robbie Cowling, who took part in a question and answer session with fans, was pleased with how things went after more than 3,000 people attended the Open Day.

He said: "It was another good day.

"It's such an excellent way for us to start our season and people were picking up their season tickets and voucher books, ready for the new season.

"It was also a chance for supporters to wave the players off before their trip to Holland and there was a really good vibe."

See Monday's Gazette for more on this story and all of the latest Colchester United news.